Highly anticipated: After years of rumors and speculation, Nintendo has officially unveiled the successor to its highly successful Switch handheld console. The initial reveal trailer provided few details but confirmed earlier rumors about the device's design, and gave fans a brief glimpse of a new Mario Kart game. Nintendo plans to release more information in April ahead of a 2025 launch. Nintendo's two-minute reveal trailer highlights several external hardware changes from its predecessor, though performance details remain undisclosed. Hands-on previews and a full unveiling are scheduled for April.The Nintendo Switch 2 closely resembles mockups that have surfaced in recent weeks. The main unit features a larger screen, an additional top-mounted USB-C port, and an upgraded kickstand. Meanwhile, the Joy-Con controllers are shown gliding along a surface, possibly confirming previous rumors that they will gain functionality akin to a PC mouse.The trailer also revealed a new, untitled Mario Kart game, featuring only a few seconds of gameplay. The clip showcases an expansive desert environment, overhauled character designs, and starting positions for 24 racers doubling Mario Kart 8's maximum of 12.With the official announcement of the Switch 2, third-party publishers are expected to confirm more games for the system in the coming weeks. Nate the Hate, the reliable tipster who accurately predicted this week's reveal trailer, has suggested that the new Mario Kart will be a launch title and that a new 3D Mario platformer will debut during the holidays.Titles like Final Fantasy 7 Remake, Assassin's Creed Mirage, and Metal Gear Solid Delta have also been speculated. Microsoft may support the system with games like Halo, Hi-Fi Rush, and Microsoft Flight Simulator. Nintendo confirmed that the new handheld will support backward compatibility with Switch games, though a small number of titles may not be compatible.Other leaks suggest that the Switch 2 will feature graphics and performance comparable to the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, or Steam Deck. It is also expected to incorporate Nvidia's DLSS super resolution and hardware-assisted ray tracing.A Nintendo Direct will provide more details on April 2. In the following weeks, Nintendo plans to host public events in cities including New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, Tokyo, Paris, Berlin, and Seoul, among others, where attendees can experience the Switch 2 firsthand. Nate the Hate and other sources speculate that the console may begin shipping in May or June. // Related Stories